How to get assessed

If you, a friend or a family member think you're autistic, see your GP to request an assessment.

Your GP needs a reason to refer you for diagnosis, so you need to explain why you think you could be autistic and how a diagnosis would benefit you.

Try to give your GP some examples of difficulties you've had in adulthood and childhood in areas such as:

speech and communication

expressing your feelings and thoughts

understanding or relating to other people

using your imagination in social situations

difficulties in being flexible in your behaviour

Not all GPs will have an in-depth knowledge of autism, so it's important to explain things as clearly as you can.

If your GP decides not to refer you for a diagnosis, find out why. You could get a second opinion from another GP at the surgery.

The Autism Act 2009 put a duty on the NHS to make sure there's somewhere to refer adults for an assessment.

What happens during an assessment?

During the assessment, healthcare professionals – who might include doctors, speech and language therapists, and occupational therapists – will want to find out more about you and any difficulties you have.

They may ask you about:

how you behave in social situations

your childhood

life at home, college or work

After the assessment

If you're diagnosed with autism, you may be offered further appointments to discuss your diagnosis and the next steps.

If you need additional help with daily living, you should be referred to your council for an assessment of your needs.

The decision about your care and support options will depend on your preferences and other factors, such as: